“As a person-centric provider, I aim to provide what is most helpful for the client's process, offering structure and feedback in our counseling and allowing for the client to create the direction of sessions.”
What was your path to becoming a therapist?
I am a licensed social worker in both Pennsylvania and New York. I grew up in New York on the beach and moved to Philadelphia in August of 2019. I have a master's degree from Fordham University and have worked in a variety of settings, including schools, outpatient mental health, and outpatient substance abuse clinics. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families as well as groups as a facilitator. Currently, I work full-time in a case management and crisis intervention department for a community agency in the Philadelphia suburbs. Therapy is my second career; prior to attending my graduate program, I managed retail stores, which taught me a lot about people, managing time, and prioritization. I pride myself on being honest, authentic, and having a good sense of humor.
What should someone know about working with you?
I am offering teletherapy-based services to individuals and couples. Our virtually-based programs allow the client the opportunity to take me wherever they like to help prioritize accessibility, commitment, and the convenience needed to get the work done. The first point of contact is email, which is the best way to get in touch with me. We'll schedule a free 15-20 minute intro call to get to know one another. If we move forward, an intake form will be provided along with access to online scheduling for future appointments. As a person-centric provider, I aim to provide what is most helpful for the client's process, offering structure and feedback in our counseling and allowing for the client to create the direction of sessions. Homework is a client-based decision and is also discussed in the intro call for a better understanding of how the client would like to proceed. Progress is monitored directly from the client, based on the specific goals.
How do your core values shape your approach to therapy?
There is a Jewish concept, Tikkun Olam, which urges us to leave the world a better place than we inherited it by focusing on social justice. I try to bring that philosophy into my personal and professional development. There is a marked difference between being a "savior" and being humble, and as a lifelong student, I work to embrace not only cultural sensitivity but cultural humility. I take my moral and ethical obligation to continue informing myself as a wellness professional seriously. I am going to teach you things, you are going to teach me things, and we are going to walk this journey together, however briefly. You are the expert of your experience, and I will respect that while helping you achieve the goals you set for yourself to improve your overall quality of life.
What are you most excited about within the evolving mental health landscape?
Overall, I find the societal conversation around mental health very exciting. The conversation is evolving and mental health issues are becoming less and less stigmatized. I am very motivated and excited by telehealth; many people find coming into an office anxiety-provoking or difficult and teletherapy gives you the opportunity to take the work wherever you need and get it done. I am curious about specific kinds of trauma therapy and the evolution of psychopharmacology.
“You are the expert of your experience, and I will respect that while helping you achieve the goals you set for yourself to improve your overall quality of life.”